Bulgaria signs agreement to join NATO air defence initiative

Bulgarian Defence Minister Dimitar Stoyanov signed an agreement on Friday enabling Bulgaria to join a NATO initiative to develop defences against low-flying air threats, including drones and cruise missiles.

The initiative provides a framework for allies to jointly acquire, develop and deploy air defence capabilities. It aims to improve protection against threats flying below 150 metres, including glide bombs, by developing systems to detect, identify, track and counter them.

NATO said the project was established in February 2025, with the initial participants signing a memorandum of understanding in July 2026. Bulgaria’s participation would improve interoperability and bring cost savings and operational benefits, the alliance said.

The accession document will be submitted to Bulgaria’s parliament for ratification.

Editor: Miglena Ivanova